One of the most important things we can do as union members is stay engaged — not just at work, not just in our locals, but in our communities and our political systems. Too often, members think politics is something distant or out of reach. It’s not. And the story of Mike Molisse from UWUA Local 369 proves exactly why.
Molisse’s journey — from utility worker to mayor of Weymouth, Massachusetts — shows what’s possible when a union member steps forward to serve.
Molisse started his career the same way many of our members do: out in the field. He began as a meter reader in the late 1980s and later became a lineman. His work put him face-to-face with the public every day. He saw firsthand what communities need and how essential utility workers are to daily life.
He stayed active in his union environment, contributed to discussions around safety and bargaining, and built strong relationships with union leadership — even without holding formal office. That foundation mattered.
In 2000, while still working full-time, Molisse ran for town council in Weymouth. He didn’t come from political privilege. He came from a working union background, became involved in his neighborhood, and strongly believed that working people deserve a voice in government.
He won — and then he kept showing up and doing the work.
He went on to serve 25 years on the council, including leadership roles and more than 15 years as Budget Committee chairman. He built credibility across political lines in what is a politically split community. When he later became mayor and ran to keep the seat, he was elected unopposed — something that almost never happens in a town of that size and balance. That speaks volumes about trust and performance.
There are a few lessons here for every UWUA member.
First, union experience translates directly into public leadership. Understanding contracts, budgets, safety, workforce needs, and accountability are not abstract skills — they are exactly what local governments deal with every day. Our members already work in highly regulated, highly responsible environments. That prepares you more than you might think.
Second, relationships matter. Through his union background and years of service, Molisse built durable relationships with labor groups, community organizations, and state officials. Those relationships helped Weymouth secure major infrastructure funding tied to redevelopment projects that will support jobs and economic growth. When union members are at the table, communities benefit.
Third, engagement doesn’t start with running for high office. It starts locally and practically. Attend town meetings. Serve on boards and commissions. Volunteer on community projects. Help with campaigns. Participate in your local COPE efforts. Hold signs. Knock doors. Make calls. Those actions build both confidence and visibility.
COPE and political action programs exist for a reason. They allow working people to compete in systems that would otherwise be dominated by money and special interests. While not every race involves financial contributions, endorsements, volunteer energy, and member turnout are often just as powerful — and sometimes more so.
Another important point: local and state offices directly affect our members’ lives. Decisions about infrastructure, permitting, emergency response, workforce standards, and public investment are often made at these levels. If we are not engaged, others will make those decisions without worker input.
I also want to emphasize that you don’t have to be a “career politician” to run. Mike Molisse wasn’t. He was a working utility employee who cared about his town and understood people. Voters respond to authenticity, work ethic, and fairness — qualities union members demonstrate every day.
Our union has a long history of members stepping into leadership beyond the job — in school boards, councils, state legislatures, and mayor’s offices. We should be proud of that tradition and continue building it.
If you’ve ever thought about getting involved, take the first step. Talk with your local leadership. Connect with your state labor council. Learn how your local and the UWUA national COPE programs work. Start showing up.
Working people belong in public office — and when they get there, they make a difference.
Mike Molisse is proof.